Last week, an American family was separated when Jesus Lara, an Ohio father of four U.S. Citizen children, was deported and forced to leave his family. Jesus had no criminal record, had been checking in with ICE for years, and had never done anything to deserve being removed.
Prior to his deportation, Jesus’ community in Ohio and allies from all over the country showed incredible support, signing over 35,000 petitions and making hundreds of phone calls petitioning for Jesus to be allowed to stay. That community has remained, with hundreds of people donating to a GoFundMe for the Lara family and leaving incredible and heartwarming messages of sympathy. Despite Trump’s vitriol and rhetoric, the vast majority of Americans support immigrants and oppose mass deportation, and the outpouring for the Lara family has been an illustration of that.
We wanted to show you just a few of these messages, below:
Barbara
I have made these calls. I am very much hoping that your Dad is allowed to stay here. Regardless of the outcome, do not lose hope. Millions of people here care about you and your family.
Jeffrey
This is a terrible injustice and proof that the system is not working. I cannot imagine the sadness you and your family must feel over this.
Karla
It isn’t much, but I want to extend some support to you and your family. I’m so sorry that you have to go through this and I wish you all the best. No te me aguites, mijo! You and your siblings have all the potential for success and I know your family will reunite again somehow.
Stephen Cano
I pray God sends you peace. I am praying for you and your father and family and that our merciful God will make a way for your family to be reunited. Trust God. Always trust God.
Flora
From one American family to another: we love you and support you. Your family deserves to be together. We hope this helps you while your Dad is away from you.
Sara May
This story is so heart breaking. Please know that the lawmakers who forced your father to leave the USA do not represent most Americans who believe we should welcome and embrace good people who want to make a better life here.
Mary
I am so sorry that this is happening to your family. May your brave action be a reminder to Americans not to be complacent in the face of policies that tear families apart. We need to stop this madness.
Mica
Eric – you are such an inspiring young man. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. I am so sorry that despite your best efforts and with all of the support you received and calls made that we were unable to keep your dad here. This is not justice. Know that you and your family are not forgotten and may you be showered with love during this difficult time.
